Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. From ragtime to rap, from the early phonograph to today's digital recordings, the AFM has been there for its members. And now there are more benefits available to AFM members than ever before, including a multi-million dollar pension fund, excellent contract protection, instrument and travelers insurance, work referral programs and access to licensed booking agents to keep you working.
As an AFM member, you are part of a membership of more than 80,000 musicians. Experience has proven that collective activity on behalf of individuals with similar interests is the most effective way to achieve a goal. The AFM can negotiate agreements and administer contracts, procure valuable benefits and achieve legislative goals. A single musician has no such power.
The AFM has a proud history of managing change rather than being victimized by it. We find strength in adversity, and when the going gets tough, we get creative - all on your behalf.
Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.
December 21, 2015
IM -In December, Willie Nelson, a member of Austin Local 433, received the Communications Workers of America Gerry Horgan Award from AFM President Ray Hair. Nelson received the award for his stance against union busters at the Farm Aid Concert and his defense of working people everywhere.
In November Nelson became the first country musician to receive the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song. The prestigious award recognizes a living performers and/or composers whose contributions to popular music exemplify the standard of excellence associated with George and Ira Gershwin. Previous recipients have included Paul Simon, Local 5 (Detroit, MI) member Stevie Wonder, and Local 802 (New York City) member Carole King.